When the Havenites hit the system in a surprise attack as part of Operation Thunderbolt, the overwhelmed RMN forces destroyed all stationary hardware in the system, including Grendelsbane Station, with nuclear devices.

Seven Manticoran SD(P)s and 400 LACs were destroyed in the initial engagement. Admiral Higgins then ordered the withdraw of the rest of his forces and the destruction of all orbital facilities and ships under construction or undergoing repairs.

The destruction of the shipyards also resulted in the destruction of numerous starships under construction, including 46 Invictus-class SD(P), 27 Medusa-class SD(P), 19 CLAC and 53 lighter types. This was a major blow to the RMN's fleet strength. (HH10)

Admiral Griffith captured 42,000 of the shipyard workers that were unable to evacuate with the Manticoran forces. These workers were later returned to the Star Empire of Manticore by the unilateral decision of Havenite President Eloise Pritchart as an olive branch in her attempt to end the war. (HH13)